Question

What is an ‘esterification’ reaction? Describe an activity to show esterification.(Delhi - 2011)

Answer 1

Explanation:

Esterification is defined as the chemical reaction of Ethanol with ethanoic acid in presence of concentrated sulphuric acid by providing heat results in formation of Ester i.e. Ethyl ethanoate.

1. Take 2-3 ml of ethanol in a test tube.

2. Add 2-3 ml of glacial acetic acid along with a few drops of concentrated sulphuric acid to the test tube.

3. Allow the reaction mixture to heat in a water bath for 2 minutes.

4. Pour the contents of the mixture into a beaker which contains already 20-50 ml of water. This results in formation of sweet smelling ester.